From my humble beginning in a rural setting as an experiment, i have grown to become a formidale sugar producer in Africa and beyond. 

The British strengthened me in my infancy and have stayed with me to this day.

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with Zambia Sugar

#1. History

In 1953, Tate & Lyle, a UK sugar refiner, started a sugar cane plantation in Chirundu, Zimbabwe, close to the Zambezi

The sugar was sent to be sold and refined at a refinery set up in Ndola, Zambia seven years after the plantation was established

1955, Meanwhile in Zambia a forward-thinking farmer, Tony Dahl in Mazabuka, Southern Province, is tinkering with sugar cane plants at his Better Ole Farm (soon to be Dahlia Sugar Estate).

Even in farming, staying ahead means tuning into the latest trends.

1964, Zambia gains independence from Britian thereby creating opportunities for businesses to grab markets. 

Tate & Lyle increases its investments in Zambia by developing the Nakambala Sugar Estate

This estate becomes the backdone of gave the sugar industry

Chirundu Sugar Estate is closed due to being unprofitable. 

Nakambala Sugar Estate & Ndola Sugar Refinery became the entities that build, Zambia Sugar Company.

The new entity is majority owned by Tate & Lyle in partnership with the government hand of Zambia 

In 1984, the Industrial Development Corporation, managed by the government, increased its shareholding to 78% to advance nationalization.

However, this agenda weakened the economy, decreasing sugar output and leading to the privatization of state enterprises.

In 1995, Tate & Lyle and the Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC) bought back a majority stake in the Zambia Sugar Company.

The lesson is that the government is usually not the best manager of business. It is better suited to act as a referee/regulator.

1996, listed on @LuSE_Plc

The initial public offering (IPO) brought a name change to Zambia Sugar Plc.

Illovo, a South African-based sugar producer, acquired majority ownership in Zambia Sugar Plc from Tate & Lyle and CDC.

Tate & Lyle was refocusing!

In 2006, Associated British Foods (ABF) bought 51% of Illovo and made it a wholly owned subsidiary 10 years later.

After the purchase of majority stake ABF invested heavily in Zambia Sugar Plc increasing sugar production capacity for agriculture and milling.

#2. Operations

Zambia Sugar Plc is the largest sugar producer in the country which is based in Mazabuka in the southwest about 135 km away from Lusaka.

Its main activities are growing of sugarcane, the production and marketing of sugar and its derivaties.

The business has the capacity to produce 450,000 tonnes of raw sugar per annum from about 4 million tonnes of sugar cane.

Sugar cane is cultivated using 28,000 hectares of land which is done on the company's Nakambala Estate and outgrowers

The outgrowers scheme is supported by 385 smallholder farmers and 18 commercial farmers. 

Sugar cane yields per hectare for outgrowers has managed to surpass the company due to continuous training in best practices.

Management of the Whitespoon Brand.


#3. Competitors

The sugar industry in Zambia is monopolistic, dominated by Zambia Sugar

There are no other significant sugar producers in Zambia that can be considered direct competitors

Zambia is a low-cost producer of sugar among sugar-producing countries

#4. Share Price

41.71 ZMW per share as of June 3, 2025.

36.05 ZMW per share on January 3, 2025.

10th most valuable stock, valued at ZMW 13.2 million.

6th most traded stock on the LuSE from February 28 to June 4, 2025.

316,571,385 issued shares.

#5. Shareholding

75% of Zambia Sugar Plc is controlled by ABF. The business operates under the Group’s sugar division.

ABF is a highly diversified group, featuring a range of food and ingredients businesses, as well as our retail brand, Primark.

#6. Management

MD: Oswald Magwenzi

Appointed to lead Zambia Sugar after working at Ubombo Sugar, Eswatini

He has 29 years in sugar, irrigation, and international finance, including with IFC

Holds a BSc in Agriculture, MSc in Irrigation, and MBA in Finance.

Each week will be on a Date with a company listed on the @LuSE_Plc.

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of listed firms.

Disclaimer: Do not misconstrue this thread as investment advise DATE companies before you buy its share

On a Date with Olympia Capital Corporation

It began with a vision to fill the gap left by multinational companies relocating from Zambia.

Today, it stands as a multinational enterprise operating in over nine African countries.

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with TradeKings Group

#1. History,

Back in 1995, Mohsin Patel, a visionary entrepreneur, set out to solve a nagging household headache. 

Renowned for his problem-solving prowess, Patel introduced a revolutionary laundry paste that made stubborn stains disappear with ease.

His invention wasn’t merely a cleaning solution—it revolutionized laundry for Zambian households, transforming a grueling chore into a breeze.

As word of its effectiveness spread, the paste skyrocketed in popularity, becoming a staple in homes nationwide.

The phenomenal success of the flagship product, Blue Boom Detergent Paste, marked a pivotal moment, catalyzing the birth of the TradeKings Group. 

Riding on this wave of achievement, the company embarked on an ambitious journey to diversify its offerings.  

Initially concentrating their expertise on a variety of detergent products. 

TradeKings expanded its horizons, leveraging innovative strategies and quality formulations to captivate a broader market and establish a lasting legacy in household care solutions. 

Beyond its household and personal care products led by the Boom brand, the company has expanded into confectionery, beverages, foods, and dairy. 

With over 91 brands, it continually engages consumers, redefining quality and creativity across industries.

#2. Operations

Trade Kings is a Zambian-owned company that manufactures and distributes consumer goods, including detergents, confectionery and beverages.

It is one of the largest Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Trade Kings Group operates four distinct clusters:

- Food
- Beverage
- Laundry, Home, and Personal Care Products
- Steel

Food: 

Confectionery, biscuits, castor sugar, soya fillets, spice mixes, breakfast cereals, infant cereals, potato crisps & maize snacks

Beverage: 

Maheu, Chibwantu, milkshakes, instant coffee and tea beverages, carbonated soft drinks, energy drinks, juices, milk and dairy juice blends.

Steel: 

Steel re-bar, angles and channels

Laundry, Home and Personal Care: 

Detergents, bleaches, floor cleaners, toilet cleaners, dishwashing liquids, scouring powders, bath soaps, hygiene soaps, beauty soaps, hair soaps, glycerine, hand sanitisers, antiseptic liquids and fabric conditioners.

Trade Kings Group consists of the following companies: 

- Trade Kings, 
- Big Tree Beverages, 
- Big Tree Brands, 
- Dairy Gold, 
- Swiss Bake, 
- Yoyo Foods, 
- Universal Mining and Chemicals Limited (UMCIL).

#3. Competitors

TradeKings Group operates in a competitive arena. From its inception, it successfully identified and filled a gap in local FMCG manufacturing.

Previously, the manufacturing sector was dominated by foreign enterprises which mostly relocated.

The gap left by the downscaling of foreign companies was filled by local startups like TradeKings, which has rapidly expanded across multiple FMCG categories.

In addition to brand extensions, it has successfully created multiple brands for the same product.

- Unilever
- Kellogg's
- Mega Market
- Varun Beverages
- Innscor
- Brands Africa
- Bliss Brands
- Tiger Brands
- Alternative Power
- Kingsley Beverages
- ArcelorMittal
- Dinson

Interested in learning about the companies that are changing our lives in Africa and the rest of the world follow me @MartinMataga 

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of companies that are changing our lives but not listed yet

On a Date with TradeKings Group

Satisfy your protein cravings with a trusted end to end encryption of your food source in a farm-to-plate experience. 

My livestock enjoy feed I personally produce, guaranteeing top-notch quality & safety for you

THREAD 🧵 On a Date with Zambeef Products plc

#1. History

1987, a young Irishman Francis Grogan landed a job with United Meat Packers in Ireland

Francis had recently graduated with a degree in agriculture & meat production science. He discovered his passion for this field while milking his uncle's cows

In 1991, he found himself in Zambia after responding to a job advert for a position as a meat factory manager.

He wasn't aware of Zambia beforehand, but he seized the opportunity to try something new.

Take bold calculated risks in your youth.

When he moved to Zambia, he met Oliver Irwin, the proprietor of a struggling meat factory with a small abattoir, feedlot, and two butcheries

Soon after his arrival, Carl Irwin, Oliver's son, who had qualified as a chartered accountant, took over the business.

It seemed Oliver had a succession plan which he had long envisioned for his business thereby carefully selecting a complementary partner for Carl. 

Carl had grown up in Zambia therefore needed a person with a first world experience who knew meat production. 

1994, The pair turned around the business and  registered a new enterprise, Zambeef Products Limited (ZPL). 

A year later they secured a deal to operate instore butcheries for Shoprite stores in Zambia. 

Shoprite is the largest supermarket chain in Africa

ZPL has managed to return its contract with Shoprite for the past 30 years which has helped it gain entry into Ghana and Nigeria on the back of their successive partnership.

Apart from the deal with Shoprite, ZPL has managed to open its own retail shops

In 2003, ZPL went public and listed its shares on the Lusaka Securities Exchange.

The capital raised fueled its expansion, enabling it to vertically integrate its operations.

Vertical integration involves investments in businesses within the supply chain.

2011, Seeking to rise more capital ZPL went to list on the Alternative Investment Markets (AIM) a subsidiary of the London Stock Exchange (LSE) . 

AIM is meant for small to medium companies that are risky, high growth but lack the full regulatory papers .

2016, British International Investment (BII) plc formerly known as Commonwealth Development Corporation (CDC) acquires 38% of ZPL for US$65 million.

BII plc, is the development finance institution of the UK government providing patient capital for business. 

#2. Operations,

ZPL is a vertically integrated agribusiness which supports,

The production of crops such as wheat, maize and soya beans.

 The processing of animal feeds, meat (beef, chicken & pork), leather, dairy, oil, poultry and flour milling


Distribution - A fleet of 280 trucks that deliver products from the source to retail shops guaranteeing food safety and quality.

Retail - A network of 278 shops that span across the 10 provinces of Zambia including Ghana and Nigeria.

#3. Competition,

Zambeef has competitive advantage in most of its market categories due to its scale.

- Galaun Holdings
- Simonga Farms
- Parmalat
- Flamingo
- Finta
- Eureka Chickens
- Northern Zambezi Traders
- Hybrid
- Dar Farms
- Mega Farms

#4. Share price,

2.13 ZMW per share as at May 21, 

2.13 ZMW per share on the 3rd of Jan 2025

15th most valuable stock on the LuSE with a market cap of 528 million, 

11th most traded stock over the past 3 months to May 21, 2024

300,579,630 issued shares

#5. Shareholding,

ZPL's largest shareholder is BII Plc, a development finance institution of the UK government. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is responsible for the organisation, and is the sole shareholder.


#6. Leadership Team

Faith Mukutu - CEO

A Chartered Accountant with over 15 years of experience in top-tier finance positions at leading companies like Zambia Sugar Plc and Zambian Breweries, a SABMiller Group affiliate.

Each week will be on a Date with a company listed on the @LuSE_Plc 

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of listed firms.

Disclaimer: Do not misconstrue this thread as investment advise DATE companies before you buy its sharest 

On a Date with Zambeef Products

Everywhere it goes, it plants deep roots in the land as a homegrown business

Locals are convinced I'm born and bred in their country, thanks to my name and desire to become part of the community wherever I go

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with Bata Shoe Company (BSC)

#1. History

In 1876, the Bata family of Zlin, Czech Republic known for their craftmenship in shoemaking  welcome their third child, Tomas Bata. 

The Bata family has had a long history of shoe-making, spanning eight generations and over three hundred years.

In 1887, the Baťa family moved to Uherské Hradiště after their mother Anna's death. At the age of 15 years old Tomas Bata fails in his shoe-making venture in Vienna.

By 1894 siblings Anna, Antonín, and Tomáš returned to Zlín and founded the Baťa Shoe Company.

In 1895, the new company BSC faced financial difficulties that threatened its survival.

Tomas Bata quickly pivoted to sewing his shoes from canvas, a cheaper material compared to leather. 

This change pulled the business back from the brink of bankruptcy.

In 1897, the Batovka debuted with a sleek, simple, lightweight design. 

By combining leather and canvas, BSC revolutionized traditional footwear, offering quality at unbeatable prices. 

This led to the opening of their first store in Zlin two years later.

In 1904, Tomas Bata took a six-month job in Lynn, a city outside Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States of America.

This city was the center of global footwear production, equipped with modern machinery, which he learned to operate as a factory worker.

By 1905, BSC was churning out 2,200 pairs of shoes daily, reigning as Europe's footwear titan. 

With cutting-edge mechanised production, the company leapt into rapid modernisation, becoming a pioneer in mass shoe production across the continent.

In 1908, Antonín died from Tuberculosis, leaving Tomas Bata as the sole owner of BSC. 

Their sister Anna had exited the company 10 years earlier, opting to focus on her marriage after receiving a refund for her share.

In 1914, the company landed major military boot contracts for the world war, skyrocketing production and workforce numbers. 

Employees were deemed essential, dodging the military draft. 

Post-war, the economic slump forced BSC to slash prices by 50%.

The price cut was driven by a 40% reduction in salaries, but employees were compensated with enticing non-monetary perks.

This strategic move accelerated business growth, capturing market share while competitors struggled.

In 1932, Tomas Bata died in a company plane crash shortly after takeoff. 

His stepbrother Jan Antonin Bata took over, expanding BSC globally across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe using laid up plans.

Jan was born after Tomas' father remarried

At the outbreak of World War II, the Germans seized control of the company's management, forcing Jan and Thomas Bata Jr. into exile. 

During their time abroad, Thomas Bata Jr., son of Tomas, set up shop in Canada, even founding the town of Batawa.

When the war ended communist governments in Poland, Hungary, Yugoslavia and Bulgaria seized the assets of BSC and nationalized them.

Due to the geograhical spread of the business across multiple countries it was able to bounce back from the losses.

In 1939, the Rhodesia Bata Shoe Company was founded in Gweru a city in Zimbabwe. 

This marked the start of a footwear legacy in Southern Africa, known for quality & innovation. 

The company impacted the region’s industry by creating jobs.

#2. Operations,

BSC is a multinational footwear, apparel and fashion accessories manufacturer and retailer of Czech Republic origin

It is now headquartered in Lusanne, Switzerland since 2004. It is still in the hands of the Bata Family led by Tomas' grandson


The business operates more than 5300 stores in 70 countries including Africa which even has factories in Zimbabwe, Kenya and South Africa.

The business is organised into three units namely 

Bata
Bata Industrials (safety shoes)
AW Labs (sports style)



BSC has a portfolio with more than 20 brands and labels, such as 

Bata, 
North Star, 
Power, 
Bubblegummers, 
Weinbrenner, 
Patapata
Toughees
Safari

#3. Competitors

BSC finds itself in a fierce arena, up against industry giants in the revenue:

- VF Corporation
- Nike
- Puma
- Burberry
- New Balance
- Kering
- Adidas
- Asics
- Fila

VF Corporation owns multiple brands which include Dickies, North  Face

#4. Management

Sandeep Kataria - CEO

A game-changing leader, revitalized Bata India. With 24 years at Unilever, Yum Brands, and Vodafone across India and Europe.

His global savvy and sharp business strategies are likely to drive Bata to new heights.

On a Date with Bata

Completed the purchase of a 12.2-megawatt solar plant from Caledonia Mining Corporation in Gwanda, Zimbabwe.

This project is part of my mission to power Africa's industries with dependable clean energy.

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with CrossBoundary Energy (CBE)

#1. History

In 2012, entrepreneurs Jack Cusack and Matt Tilleard spotted opportunities in the chaos of war-torn Afghanistan and even South Sudan. 

Where others saw obstacles, they saw potential. Entrepreneurs solve problems by providing better solutions. 


Harnessing their expertise and that of  partners, they crafted an enterprise to fill infrastructural voids in overlooked markets.

The major challenge was funding the infrastructural needs of these markets which led to the investment firm, Crossboundary Group

CrossBoundary Group (CBG) unlocks capital for sustainable growth and robust returns in under-served markets.

It operates through three distinct investment platforms:

1. CrossBoundary Energy
2. CrossBoundary Access
3. CrossBoundary Real Estate

#2. Operations,

CrossBoundary Energy (CBE) aims to provide enterprises with cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable power through distributed energy resources (DER). 

CBE operates in +10 countries especially Africa including, 

Egypt
Ghana
Kenya
Nigeria
Zimbabwe

DERs are small-scale energy assets like rooftop solar panels, battery storage, wind turbines, and smart grids. 

They generate or store energy locally, boosting resilience, reducing grid reliance, and promoting sustainability with renewable energy.

In 2015, CBE partnered with Solarcentury Africa to launch its first project at Nairobi's Garden City Mall, Kenya. 

After a failed attempt in South Sudan due to a military coup, part of CBG team moved to Kenya, establishing it as CBE's headquarters.

CBE operates with an exceptional business strategy, partnering intimately with diverse commercial industries across multiple sectors.

The DERs are usually fully owned by CBE, guaranteeing smooth integration and management enhancing energy independence.

CBE covers the initial costs of developing DERs and typically enters into exclusive power purchase agreements (PPAs) with clients for electricity supply.

Beyond the PPAs, there are opportunities to increase the capacity of the DER power station.

#3. Customers,

Caledonia Mining Corporation - Zimbabwe
Syrah Resources - Mozambique
Nigerian Breweries - Nigeria
United Nations - Somalia
Norton Gold Fields - Australia
Unilever - Kenya
Kasapreko plc - Ghana
Indorama Ventures - Egypt
Rio Tinto - Madagascar

Interested in learning about the companies that are changing our lives in Africa and the rest of the world follow me @MartinMataga 

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of companies that are changing our lives but not listed yet.



On a Date with CrossBoundary Energy

27 years ago, I discovered a low-risk method to extend personal loans to low-income earners in with salaries

This strategy has fueled my growth across Africa. Come, let me provide you with funding for your projects

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with Letshego Holdings

In 1998, Patrick Abrahams and Mike Law are in a rush to find local influential backers for a micro-lending venture. 

The venture is an offshoot of Micro Provident Limited (MPL) a company registered in the Isle of Man which lies between Britain and Ireland.


The team successfully secured its first local shareholders, including:

- Botswana Civil Servants Association (BECSA), now BOPEU
- Botswana Life Insurance Company Limited (BLIL)
- We Ten (Pty) Ltd (a group of ladies, including Mrs. Bertha Fako)

Influential local shareholders helped Micro Provident Limited's Botswana unit by leveraging their sway over government ministry employees. 

Their support smoothed operations and built trust, crucial for integrating into the local financial scene.

In 2002, Micro Provident Botswana was   growing thus faced the challenge of securing additional capital beyond what its private shareholders could provide. 

This pressing need for substantial funding drove it to list on the Botswana Stock Exchange (BSE). 

By listing on BSE, Micro Provident Botswana aimed to tap into a broader pool of investors, enhance its finances, and propel its growth trajectory, 

This would ensure it could continue to expand its services and strengthen its position in the market.

In 2004, the major shareholder, MPL, decided to sell a significant stake, transferring ownership to international investment managers:

- Zephyr
- Netherlands Finance Development Company (FMO)
- International Finance Corporation (IFC) a unit of the World Bank

In 2005, the African expansion took off, launching the first subsidiary beyond Botswana's borders in Uganda, followed by ventures in Tanzania & Eswatini. 

The first business takeover was done 3 years later for a Namibian-based educational lender, Eduloan.

In 2008, Micro Provident Botswana changed its name to Letshego and 15 years later to Letshego Africa Holdings (LAH) to reflect its units in  Africa.

In 2017, the Namibia business was listed on the Namibia Stock Exchange and later acquired the Ghana business.

#2. Operations

LAH is an Africa-focused financial services business that advances access to affordable housing, healthcare, education and small enterprise funding.

Based in Botswana, this location accounts for a significant portion of its operations.

LAH offers

LetsGO loans with affordable rates, specialising in deduction at source (DAS) loans for government employees, ensuring low risk by deducting repayments before salary 

Moreover also provide tailored mobile loans for individuals and small businesses

 LetsGO Save 

Savings accounts offering competitive interest rates and customers are guaranteed access to their money whenever they need it. 

The prioritisation in mobilising deposits is aimed at lowering the cost of funding loans.

LetsGO Pay 

Supporting improved access and safer transacting of customers. Customers can easily make payments, send and receive money and save and borrow at their convenience. 

LetsGO Insure

Offer comprehensive range of insurance products.

LAH operates in 11 African countries, contributing 63% of its revenue from Southern Africa and 37% from East and West Africa.

#3. Share price,

1.05 BWP per share as at Apr 15, 2025

1.15 BWP per share on the 3rd of Jan 2025

12th most valuable stock on the BSE worth P2.5 billion   

1st most traded stock over the past 3 months to Apr 15, 2025

2,175,039,000 issued shares

#4. Shareholding

Botswana Life Insurance Limited (Botswana Life) is the major shareholder of Letshego Holdings. 

It is the oldest home-grown life insurer in Botswana with +45 years of history, it is a subsidiary of Botswana Insurance Holdings Limited (BIHL).

#5. Management

Aobakwa Monyatsi - Group Chief Executive  

- +18 years in regional financial services
- led digital innovation, virtual channels & fintech solutions
- Held leadership roles at Barclays Botswana, 
- Started career in auditing with PwC Botswana

Each week will be on a Date with a company listed on the @TheOfficialBSE.

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of listed firms.

Disclaimer: Do not misconstrue this thread as investment advise DATE companies before you buy its shares

On a Date with Letshego Africa Holdings

Since day one, I've been changing lives in Botswana, turning dreams into homes and securing futures.

Discover our journey from modest roots to becoming a financial pillar in Botswana.

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with BBS Bank

In 1971, the United Building Society of South Africa (UBS) inaugurated its operations in Botswana. 

UBS would later be bundled with other financial institutions in South Africa to become Amalgamated Banks of South Africa (ABSA) Limited, 

By 1976, UBS in Botswana underwent a pivotal transformation to become the Botswana Building Society (BBS). 

With a renewed mandate, BBS focused on providing essential housing finance, specifically targeting immovable urban property. 

This shift aimed to support urban development and address the growing demand for residential housing. 

Thereby playing a crucial role in shaping Botswana's urban infrastructure and improving living standards for its citizens.

In 1986, the Building Societies Act was amended to allow BBS to finance property development, even in rural areas.

2017, there was further amendments to the Building Societies Act and Companies Act to enable BBS to apply for a commercial banking licence

In 2022, BBS was granted a commercial banking license by the Bank of Botswana, making it the first indigenous commercial bank.

The bank now offers a broad range of products and services, including:

- Accepting deposits
- Credit creation
- Giving loans

Despite tough competition, BBS Bank has grown customer deposits in Botswana's banking sector through innovative, customer-focused strategies. 

This growth allows them to offer affordable loans, supporting both individuals and businesses.

Competitors, 

ABSA Bank
Access Bank
Bank Gaborone
Bank of Baroda
First Capital
FNB
Stanbic Bank
Standard Chartered Bank

As a homegrown bank, BBS Bank evokes national pride, fostering customer loyalty and reinforcing its trusted position in the community

Share Price,

0.50 BWP per share as at Oct 2, 

0.49 BWP per share on the 3rd of Jan 2024

21st on performance ranking in terms of year to date. 

12th most traded stock over the past 3 months to Oct 2, 2024

487,453 total shareholding

Shareholding

Botswana Privatisation Asset Holdings (BPAH), controls 15.07% of BBS Bank, 

It is tasked with managing and selling government shares from privatised entities. 

BPAH invests these shares wisely and gradually sells them to citizens.

Management

Ms. Pedzani Tafa - Managing Director (MD)

Appointed on January 4, 2023, Ms. Tafa brings over 31 years of experience in commercial banking. 

She held senior positions at multiple banks in Botswana, including COO at Botswana Savings Bank, 

On a Date with BBS Bank

Hold on to your Tupperware products; the company's survival is hanging by a thread as it seeks court protection.

Just like humans, businesses can fall severely ill and require immediate attention.

THREAD 🧵: Business ICU with Tupperware Brands (TB)

Once a kitchen staple, TB now teeters on the brink of collapse, burdened by massive debt, fierce market competition from cheaper alternatives & shifting consumer preferences.

Can this iconic brand reinvent itself and reclaim its crown in the kitchen?

In 1946, Tupperware introduced its revolutionary plastic products to the public after founder Earl S. Tupper invented their innovative flexible airtight seal. 

The brand quickly became a household name first in America and across the world. 

Its popularity soared thanks to vibrant sales parties by suburban women. 

These gatherings showcased Tupperware's practicality and durability while fostering community and empowerment, offering new purpose and economic opportunities for women post-war.

TB initially tried selling in grocery and department stores but failed. 

Earl Tupper then hired Brownie Wise, who successfully sold through house parties to stay-at-home moms.

This success in direct selling transformed TB's entire business model.

This business model ultimately became one of its major downfalls, as success led to complacency in adapting to changing times.

As work opportunities for women increased, the number of house parties dwindled thereby reducing potential sales.

TB was slow to adapt to changing times and failed to follow women into stores through product placements. 

As a result, the brand was not visible where their customers were now shopping after they started earn

In 1980s, several of TB's patents expired

The expiration of Tupperware's patents eroded their competitive edge, leading to a flood of competitors, from obscure brands to giants like Addis, Rubbermaid, and Glad.

Their absence in select stores also hurt their brand as plastic's reputation declined

As plastic's reputation declined, Tupperware's uniqueness was overshadowed and bundled with cheaper alternatives, 

Despite its use of environmentally friendly raw materials, especially in products made after 2010, which are Bisphenol-A-free (BPA).

Products that are BPA-free do not contain any traces of Bisphenol-A. 

BPA has the ability to leach into foods and beverages  causing health problems especially in younger children.

Tupperware Brands (TB) has committed to making BPA-free products. , 

TB also has a recycling program for its old containers, enhancing its environmental credentials.

It has expanded beyond food storage containers, venturing into toy manufacturing and even partnering with NASA to develop a device for growing food in space

TB has not been resting on its laurels. It has secured a deal with Target, reinforcing its brand positioning in the market. 

Additionally, TB has ventured into e-commerce through partnerships with Amazon. Virtual sales parties were activated on platforms

Despite these positive interventions, the business still faces challenges from:

- Preference for glass
- Takeaway culture
- Plastic commodification
- Industrial food preparations
- Mismanagement

What can TB doctors do to help it regain its health?

See potential business comeback of TB? You might want to consider reading this article by @GodwinMungwadzi on how Zimbabweans living in Zimbabwe can access the @NYSE shares. 

Diversify your portfolio & earn in liquid markets. 

https://www.greedysouth.co.zw/2022/12/how-to-invest-in-australia-and-us.html?m=1


Thanks for reading the first Business ICU case. If you share my fascination with companies building our communities, follow @MartinMataga.

Disclaimer: This is not investment advice. VISIT companies in ICU and consult experts for a proper prognosis.

Business ICU with Tupperware Brands

Impala Platinum Holdings (Implats) capitalizes on BHP's mistake in Zimbabwe.

With Zimplats profitable, it may rescue Implats as its South African mines struggle.

THREAD 🧵: On a Date with Zimplats Holdings Limited - Pt 3

Zimplats, originally Delta Gold's Zimbabwean platinum assets, partnered with BHP to develop them. 

BHP struggled, particularly with the Hartley Platinum Mine, and sold its share to Zimplats

Zimplats then became a unit of Implats to fund its Ngezi project

Implats is a leading, fully integrated Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) producer. 

The Group comprises seven mining operations and Impala Refining Services (IRS), a refining business. 

Its operations are located in South Africa and Zimbabwe and Canada.

PGMs comprise six silver-white metals: platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium.

These metals occur together in nature and are mainly produced from the same ore in South Africa, Russia, North America, and Zimbabwe.

In Zimbabwe, Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) are found along the Great Dyke. 

This linear geological feature runs nearly north-south through the center of the country. 

It consists of a narrow band of ridges and hills stretching approximately 550 kilometres.

Zimplats Holdings, listed on the Australian Securities Exchange @ASX, operates Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (ZPM).

ZPM is a significant producer of PGMs, exploiting ore bodies located on the Great Dyke, southwest of Harare known as Hartley Geological Complex.

ZPM operates 5 mines, 4 concentrator plants, and a smelter. 

The concentrator plants process ore from the mines, which is then further refined at the Selous Metallurgical Complex (SMC) in Selous, where the smelter is located.

After the expiration of the special mining lease, ZPM was granted 2 mining leases #36 (ML36) & #37 (ML37) 

These leases are valid for the entire lifespan of Zimplats' mining operations. ML36 covers the Hartley area, while ML37 encompasses the Ngezi mines.

Ngwarati, Rukodzi and Mupfuti mines are soon to come to their end as they become depleted and will be fully replaced by Mupani and Bimha Mine. 

Ore produced by 5 mines in 2023 was 7.6 million tonnes (Mt) compared to (2022: 7.1 Mt). Bimha contributing 38%.

Matte and concentrate sold to IRS in 2023 totaled 603,000 6E ounces (oz).

Matte is a mixture of various base metal sulfides that contain precious metals, produced during smelting and converting.

The 6 elements (6E) include 5 PGMs (except osmium) & gold.

IRS a subsidiary of Implats, serves as the sole customer of ZPM

IRS specializes in toll refining and purchasing metal concentrates for Implats

It offers smelting and refining services through off-take agreements with both Implats units 
& third parties.

PGMs are mainly used in automotive autocatalysts, converting over 90% of harmful emissions in petrol and diesel engine run vehicles' exhaust systems into less harmful substances.

The other use cases are listed in this article.

https://ipa-news.com/assets/applications/25_applications_of_pgms_ipa_fact_sheet_final.pdf?PHPSESSID=2c29d3f959eac4456220d8d833909964

Sales of matte and concentrates generated USD 962.29 million in 2023.

The revenue decline compared to previous periods was attributed to low metal prices as a result of oversupply of PGMs and reduced vehicle sales for internal combustion engines.

Zimplats has overcome insurmountable challenges under Alex's 17 years in leadership whilst remaining profitable, successfully navigated:

- Indigenization policy 
- Inflationary pressures 
- Supply chain disruptions 
- The shift in consumer preference 

The share price for Zimplats has been declining throughout the year. 

It started at AUD 21.73 on January 2nd and has dropped to AUD 13.85 as of September 13th.

Zimplats has 107,637,649 shares outstanding, with 87% held by Implats.

The profits of Anglo American Platinum slumped by 71% in 2023 triggering fears of job cuts in South Africa. 

The outlook for PGMs seems dire as its major demand generator the internal combustion engines vehicles are in serious competition with EVs.

However recent data is showing a cooling in demand for EVs in favour of hybrids which Toyota is championing.

Apart from the demand side there is talk of declining supplies from miners which plays well in improving prices.

Is Zimplats a buy or sell NOW?

This is part 3 of On a Date with Zimplats Holdings. Part 4 - PGM industry.

If you are interested in investing in Zimplats Holdings which is listed on the @ASX but reside in Zimbabwe please check out this article
https://www.greedysouth.co.zw/2022/12/how-to-invest-in-australia-and-us.html?m=1

Each Sunday will be on a Date with a company listed on the @ASX.

The purpose of this thread is to have a minimum appreciation of listed firms.

Disclaimer: Do not misconstrue this thread as investment advise DATE companies before you buy its shares

On a Date with Zimplats Holdings Limited

We offer high-quality, water-resistant, and low-maintenance flooring for homes and offices. Stylish and durable for hassle-free living.

Our goal is to be a leading investment firm in building supplies.

THREAD 🧵: A Date with Olympia Capital Corporation (OCC)

#1. History

In 1988, four Botswana investors founded Kalahari Floor Tiles (KFT) to meet local vinyl floor tile demand

Vinyl flooring is made from synthetic materials like fibreglass & PVC, is durable and moisture-resistant due to its multi-layered structure.

The investors struggled to launch their venture after registering KFT due to difficulties in securing necessary financing for the project. 

Additionally, they faced delays in receiving plant and equipment from Rikett, a former unit of Reiber of Norway.

The business initially reported losses due to heavy debt and insufficient support from the machinery supplier, which adversely affected product quality.

By 1994, after resolving machinery issues, the plant was selling 525,000 square meters of vinyl annually.

Unfortunately, these production levels were insufficient to service the company's debt

In 1998, the business was refinanced through an equity injection by Rikett. The original investors saw their holdings dissipate to 6%

However KFT continued to make losses.

2001, Rikett sold its ownership of KFT to Dunlop Kenya Limited (DKL) now Olympia Capital Holdings (OCH) incorporated in Kenya.

2002, KFT was transferred into an investment entity, Olympia Capital Corporation (OCC) and later listed on the BSE.

In 2007, OCC attempted to expand from Botswana to South Africa by acquiring Plush Products and Natwood. 

Although these acquisitions broadened OCC's geographic reach and product range, both companies were eventually closed, 

#2. Operations

OCC, an investment holding company in building, industrial & allied services, fully owns KFT

KFT makes vinyl floor tiles, aluminum doors/windows, cleaning chemicals/equipment, and blinds

KFT has an installed capacity of 1 million sqm/ annum

#3. Competitors

KFT's competition comes from other flooring solutions available in the market such as porcelain and ceramic. 

The other products made by KFT are in highly competitive markets which continues to limit profit margin growth 

#4. Share price,

0.26 BWP per share as at Sept 12, 

0.26 BWP per share on the 3rd of Jan 2024

35th most valuable stock on the BSE with a market capitalisation of 16.7 million pula. 

64,349,985 issued shares

#5. Shareholding,

OCH an investment holding company listed on the @NSE_PLC is the majority shareholder with 60.41%

Christopher Obura's investment vehicle Karen Enterprises controls a distant 5.93% of the shares. He is an accomplished dentist and businessman.

Thinking about investing in Botswana? Get support from a local stockbroker. There are three registered firms:

- Imara Capital Securities
- Motswedi Securities
- Stockbrokers Botswana